1st Edition

English Political Culture in the Fifteenth Century

By Michael Hicks Copyright 2002
    280 Pages
    by Routledge

    280 Pages
    by Routledge

    English Political Culture in the Fifteenth Century is a new and original study of how politics worked in late medieval England, throwing new light on a much-discussed period in English history. Michael Hicks explores the standards, values and principles that motivated contemporary politicians, and the aspirations and interests of both dukes and peasants alike.

    Hicks argues that the Wars of the Roses did not result from fundamental weaknesses in the political system but from the collision of exceptional circumstances that quickly passed away. Overall, he shows that the era was one of stability and harmony, and that there were effective mechanisms for keeping the peace. Structure and continuities, Hicks argues, were more prominent than change.

    Preface, List of abbreviations, 1 Parameters, 2 Political culture: past political cultures, 3 Monarchy, 4 Aristocracy, 5 Class perspectives, 6 Government: central government, 7 Alternative perceptions, 8 Bastard feudalism, 9 Provincial communities: models of provincial society, 10 Interaction: centre and provinces, 11 Civil war: categories and causes, 12 Conclusion, Notes, Select bibliography, Index

    Biography

    Michael Hicks

    'As a guide to existing thinking, it has much to offer both teacher and student alike.' - History